Is Alternative Fuel the Future of Package Delivery

As the public demand for energy-efficient vehicles continues to grow, one overlooked part of the equation is the commercial trucks used in the supply chain. While electric vehicles for personal use would certainly help reduce our overall carbon footprint, we must also consider how we power the trucks and utility vehicles that drive our economy.

This is why news that UPS will deploy a prototype Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) in its fleet later this year is so encouraging. UPS has said that it is working with the U.S. Department of Energy and other partners to develop a Class 6 delivery truck that has zero tailpipe emissions. It is the first of its kind, and UPS has said that it will be able to meet the same route and range requirements currently imposed on all of its conventional fuel vehicles.

UPS was quick to note that the public shouldn’t expect to see an alternative fuel fleet of delivery vehicles overnight. The prototype features brand new fuel cell technology to energize the vehicle propulsion system. According to UPS’s press release announcement, the prototype has a range of 125 miles, and each truck will be equipped with a 32kW fuel cell coupled to 45kWh of battery storage and 10kg of hydrogen fuel. UPS believes that this will be enough energy to support all of the route and range requirements necessary to maintain operations.

As this is new technology, it has taken time to make it available on a commercial scale. UPS has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in alternative fuel, and it has received significant funding from the Department of Energy on this FCEV project. However, the end result could be big news for those concerned about sustainability. Nearly 80% of people shop online. If those delivery trucks are powered by alternative fuel, this could have a significant impact on our carbon footprint.

At Rebling, we supply a variety of electrical and battery components that support Class 2-8 commercial and utility trucks. We offer best-in-class truck battery switches, bulkhead mounted receptacles, and more. If you are looking for high-quality parts that lower the total cost of ownership and maintain productivity, look no further than Rebling. Contact us today at 215-343-2400 to inquire about our truck components for commercial use.